Seeking support in the ostomy community is a vital aspect of embracing life with an ostomy. Hi, I'm Leanne Hayden, ostomy advocate and host of the Beautiful Bag podcast. In partnership with Hollister Incorporated, I'm excited to share various ways you can find support and build a strong community within the ostomy world. Join me as we explore the power of connection and the resources available to make your ostomy journey a fulfilling and empowering one.

1. Discovering the Power of Community: In the early stages of my own ostomy journey, I was searching for a sense of belonging and understanding. It took me almost five years to discover the support and resources that were available to me. I wish I had known about them sooner. Recognizing the importance of finding a community of like-minded individuals who live with an ostomy was a turning point in my journey.

2. Sharing Stories and Amplifying Voices: One significant step I took to connect with the ostomy community was through social media. After a meditation session, I mustered the courage to share a personal photo on Facebook Live. I spoke about my journey, the importance of self-love, and the beauty of living with an ostomy. The response was overwhelming, with over 25,000 people viewing the video. This experience taught me the power of storytelling and how it can shift perceptions and create positive change.

3. Embracing Social Media Platforms: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with fellow ostomates. By searching the hashtag #Ostomy, you'll discover a vibrant community sharing their experiences, insights, and stories online. Engaging with these individuals through messages or comments can lead to meaningful connections and lasting friendships. Social media serves as a gateway to finding support and forming bonds with others who truly understand what life with an ostomy entails.

4. Professional Organizations and Support Groups: United Ostomy Association of America (UOAA) and other organizations tied to specific conditions, such as Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, Girls with Guts, or Colorectal Cancer Alliance, offer local and national chapters or support groups across the United States. These groups provide a nurturing environment where you can connect with individuals who share similar experiences. Participating in their events, webinars, and meetings can be immensely valuable for both personal growth and building a supportive network.

5. Partnering with Manufacturers and Suppliers: Manufacturers like Hollister Incorporated and your ostomy supply supplier can offer a wealth of resources and connections within the ostomy community. Reach out to them for guidance, product information, and access to stories shared by others who have successfully integrated their ostomy into their lives. Leverage their expertise and tap into the wealth of knowledge they possess.

6. The Beautiful Bag Podcast: Sharing Journeys, Inspiring Lives: To further amplify the voices within the ostomy community, I launched The Beautiful Bag podcast. Through this platform, I share my personal stories as well as interviews with guests who share their own journeys and insights. The podcast serves as a powerful medium to spread awareness, provide valuable information, and foster a sense of belonging within the ostomy community. Tune in to gain inspiration, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of what life with an ostomy can be.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. The ostomy community is much larger and more supportive than you might initially think. With an estimated 725,000 to a million people living with an ostomy in the United States alone, there is a vast community waiting to embrace and support you. Whether through social media, support groups, professional organizations, or connecting with manufacturers like Hollister Incorporated, there are endless opportunities to find your tribe, share your experiences, and uplift others.

If you're in need of assistance or guidance in navigating the ostomy community, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit leannehayden.com for more information or contact Hollister Secure Start Services at 888-808-7456 or hollisterteam@hollister.com. Our team is dedicated to connecting you with the right resources and support tailored to your specific needs. Let's come together, celebrate our journeys, and thrive as a vibrant and supportive ostomy community.

Feel free to share this blog post with others in your network who may benefit from the support and resources available. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected community that empowers and inspires individuals on their ostomy journey.